The monastic revival he led spread to other houses, including Hautmont, Marchiennes, Saint Maximinus of Trier in Germany, and Saint Vaast in Arras in France. He practiced severe personal asceticism, cared nothing for literature, and lacked organization, but managed to bring order and devotion to his houses, earning the love of his brothers and the laity. Unofficial counselor to emperor SaintHenry II on matters of faith, politics, and diplomacy.